Antony wants Aerospace technology to develop responses to terrorism

Bengaluru, Feb 9 (ANI): With the terrorist outfits adopting new methods to wreak havoc in civil society, Defence Minister AK Antony today called for 'a calibrated international response' to prevent recurrence of such attacks in future.

Opening an international seminar on "Aerospace-Perspectives and Trends in Technologies' to coincide with Aero-India 2009 here, Antony said the methods used by the terrorists require a collective and well-coordinated response.

"The dynamics of security are changing continuously across the world. The unconventional means of warfare used by the terrorists as seen in the 9/11 attacks and the recent terror attacks on Mumbai demand a calibrated international response. Technology has to be backed up by a proactive response from the government and the civil society," he said.

Talking about the modernisation of Indian Air Force, the Defence Minister said the ongoing global economic downturn will not affect the same and assured that resources in full measure will be provided to achieve this objective.

Antony called upon the private industry to come forward and spend more for R andD in defence sector.

Giving the example of the development of missile systems in which a number of players, both in private and public sectors are stake holders, Antony said the all round development of the country needs committed and collective effort from all sectors-the scientists, engineers, industrialists, civil services and the Armed Forces. He said the aviation sector is witnessing a large scale expansion.

"In such a scenario, our scientists and manufacturers need exposure to the best international practices to hone their skills. Developments in aerospace sector have triggered changes in related spheres like telecommunication and electronics," he said.

Referring to the 'offset policy' of the government, which is aimed at enhancing the technical, and manufacturing potential, he said, "It would prove beneficial to both, the Indian industry and foreign partners. The policy also provides for the growth of medium and small entrepreneurs."

He further said that this seminar will provide opportunities to project their capabilities.

Appreciating the achievements of the Defence R andD establishments in the country, he stressed the importance of timely delivery of the products.

Recalling the vision of Jawaharlal Nehru of a self-reliant nation in Defence technology, he reminded that the country has achieved only 30 per cent indigenisation and is still importing as much as 70 per cent of its requirements.

Over 850 delegates from 12 countries are taking part in the three-day seminar organised by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

The seminar is focussing on futuristic trends in aerospace technologies. For the first time, nearly 150 students from various engineering colleges and institutions in the country are taking part in the seminar.

Among others who were present in the inaugural ceremony were DRDO Chief M Natarajan, Secretary, Department of Defence Production, Pradeep Kumar and Chairman, HAL, Ashok Baweja. (ANI)